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Archive for November, 2015

Calico cats are not a breed but they all share unique markings. They have separate patches of red, while and black fur. Some calico’s have separate blocks of color but in pastel shades which give them an ethereal appearance. The coloring on these calico’s is a little different from your typical calico. Because two “X” chromosomes are needed to produce these markings, calico cats are almost always female. Like any mixed breed cat, calico’s don’t have any specific personality traits. Instead their personalities are determined by genetics and early contacts with humans. But regardless of personality, the calico is always sure to be admired by other cat lovers. These cats enjoy all of the same cat accessories as other cat breeds.

Thanksgiving is over but there are always lots of leftovers in your fridge. I know that it’s tempting to give your dog a turkey bone as he looks at you with those sad eyes but there are many reasons why bones are very bad for dogs. Vetstreet.com has put together a list of reasons why you would shouldn’t give your dog any bones!

Bones can cause bloody mouth or tongue injuries.

Round bones can become stuck around your dog’s lower jaw and may require a veterinary visit to remove.

Bone fragments that pierce your dog’s stomach or intestines can cause serious bacterial infections that are difficult to treat and can even be fatal.

Bones and bone fragments can cause your dog to become constipated.

Bone fragments can be sharp, causing pain and bleeding from the rectum as your dog passes them.

So when your dogs beg as you make those turkey sandwiches, give him a dog treat instead.

Even though your pet enjoys the outdoors, he may tread on dangerous ground. You decide to take your dog camping with you. He loves being out in the woods or field but poisonous snakes can go with the territory. Dr. Fred Omi, a Veternarian at Kansas State University says that not all snake bites are alike. He says that only half of the bites given to dogs or cats by snakes are injections of venum. The rest are called “dry” bites where the snake bites but does not inject the venum into the dog or cat. Don’t overreact but never ignore your pets snakebite. Don’t attempt to administer pet medication yourself. See your veternarian right away, he will determine whether the bite needs further treatment.

Local animal shelters are filled with cats and dogs abandoned due to the economic crisis. It really bothers me how many people got rid of their pets for financial reasons yet maintain an unlimited cellphone plan and mindlessly text all day! The fact is that many people will not adopt an older cat or dog for fear that it only has a few years to live. Remember cats can live as long as 20 years, so if you adopt a twelve year old cat and if it’s in good health, you can have eight good years with it. Giving a second chance to an abandoned older cat or dog is a very rewarding experience. Perhaps this holiday season, some can really help the animal shelters and adopt a needy animal. If you cannot adopt a pet due to allergies or financial reasons, animal shelters could use old blankets, food or anything else that you can donate. Spend your money on cat toys or a pet carrier instead of paying for minutes to mindlessly text all day!

You let your dog outside in your yard for some good wholesome fun and exercise but when it’s time for him to come back inside, the yard looks like the surface of the moon! There are mini “craters” all over the place. I’m sure that this activity is something that you could do without. Dogs often dig out of loneliness, boredom, and the stress of being confined. Because dogs are pack animals, dogs may dig at a fence or gate to try to join other dogs. Dogs that are not neutered may be trying to find a mate. In Summer, dogs may dig to cool off because the ground is cooler than the air. Dogs like Terriers dig instinctively for prey. Some dogs just dig to explore. By taking your dog for a long walk, tossing a dog toy like a frisbie in the park, and just more human interaction may help satisfy your dog’s needs in a less destructive way. Remember, your pets count!

Many owners don’t realize how important it is for their cats to be kept well hydrated. Many times house cats don’t get enough water. I always left lots of water for my cats but rarely saw them drinking. I solved the problem by getting a running water fountain. Now I know my cats are drinking enough. Cats love cool, running water. That’s how they get it in the wild.

How can you tell if your cats getting enough water?

There are a few simple signs that will give you a pretty good indication of your cat is staying hydrated:

Skin elasticity. Gently pull the skin at the base of your cat’s neck (scruff). The skin should spring back when you release it. If it does not, your cat might not be getting enough water.

A shiny coat without dry flakes is a sign of hydration

Your cat should exhibit normal physical activity and not be overly lethargic

Is your cat urinating 2-3 times per day? You can tell if this is happening by checking your cat’s litter box for medium-sized clumps.

If your dogs suddenly start fighting with one another, the reasons can vary. Have any of your dogs not been neutered? Has one become sexually mature? Is there plenty of space for both of them to share? Have you let them get away with bad behavior in the past? Do they get little exercise or have too few dog toys? Any or all of these things can cause fighting.

To correct the problem, exert your authority and feed the more aggressive dog last. Make him walk behind you and your other dog. If he does show aggression, give him an immediate correction such as a loud noise. This tells him that fighting will not be tolerated. Always reward him for peaceful behavior. This will motivate him to repeat the good behavior. If the problem continues, consult your veterinarian.

Studies have shown that having a pet in your senior years, can ease loneliness and alleviate anxiety and boredom. Pets provide seniors with lots of love and affection. When you select a dog for a senior, you must consider size and temperament. Typically smaller dogs are better. If the pet becomes ill, they are easier to transport than a larger dog. Also remember that even small dogs can have an aggressive personality. Listed below are dog breeds that are best suited for seniors.

Here are some tips on how you become leader of the pack rather than your dog.

1. When walking your dog, you should be the first one out the door and the first one back in. Your dog should walk either beside or behind you.

2. Use a short dog leash because this allows you to have more control. If you attach the leash to the top of your dogs neck, you can communicate, guide and correct your dog easier. When you are correcting him, always keep his safety in mind. Never yank or pull him.

3. Make sure that you set enough time aside for the walk. You should set aside 30 minutes to a full hour. Morning walks are ideal. Keep a close eye on your dog while you are walking him.

4. After your dog has behaved and maintained the proper state of mind, reward him by letting him relieve himself and sniff around. You now have to decide when the reward time is over. It should always be less than the time spent focused on the walk.

5. When you get home, don’t stop leading. Have your dog wait patiently while you put away his dog leash or take off your shoes.

6. Give your dog a meal after the walk and make sure that you pick up after him.

This information was according to Cesar Millan’s tips on how to become leader of the pack. Remember, your pets count!

This morning as I was having my coffee, I heard the dreaded scratching on my furniture. I was my 16 year old cat Molly. She goes for the bottom of my living room chair. I shouted at her to stop and she did listen. Why do they do this? To your cat, it’s natural behavior. They follow a need to keep their claws in top shape and to leave visual and scent markings on the object. In the wild, they communicate territory boundaries to other cats and animals. Scratching also provide a form a exercise for cats.

The solution is that you need to made some effort to stop the behavior. Make sure you have several places for your cat to scratch. When he scratches on the furniture, take him to his scratching post. I buy a product that I spray on the furniture. This usually keeps my cats away from the furniture. Today, unfortunately, I ran out of the spray. So I will stop by my local pet supply store and pick up a few more cans. There are several brands to choose from. I use Boundary. It works for 24 hours.